Warren Civic Music Association Celebrates 80 Years of Bringing Entertainment to Ohio Community

The nonprofit organization has been a fixture in the region since 1937, hosting renowned artists and evolving with the times.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Warren Civic Music Association, founded in 1937, is the oldest community arts organization in Trumbull County, Ohio and one of the first in the state. Over the past 80 years, the nonprofit has presented a wide variety of high-quality musical programs and entertainment at affordable prices, hosting renowned artists from the Metropolitan Opera, symphony orchestras, Broadway, and more. The organization has adapted its programming to suit a changing audience, recently featuring acts like The Texas Tenors, The Lennon Sisters, and The Gatlin Brothers.

Why it matters

The Warren Civic Music Association's longevity and commitment to the arts in its community is noteworthy, especially in an era when many small, independent arts organizations have struggled to survive. Its ability to evolve while maintaining its core mission of bringing affordable, quality entertainment to the region is a testament to the organization's dedication and the community's support.

The details

The Warren Civic Music Association was originally incorporated in 1937 as the Warren Concert Organization, before reorganizing in 1940 under its current name. For decades, the organization held its concerts at the Konold Auditorium of Warren G. Harding High School, before moving to the W.D. Packard Music Hall in 1955 when the 2,100-seat facility first opened. The music hall, situated on 42 acres of Packard Park, was made possible by the vision and generosity of local industrialist William Doud Packard. Over the years, the association has presented a wide variety of acts, from classical vocalists and instrumentalists to Broadway performers, jazz musicians, and contemporary artists.

  • The Warren Civic Music Association was incorporated in 1937.
  • The organization reorganized in 1940 under its current name.
  • The association's concerts were originally held at the Konold Auditorium of Warren G. Harding High School.
  • The organization moved its concerts to the W.D. Packard Music Hall in 1955 when the venue first opened.
  • The Warren Civic Music Association is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Warren Civic Music Association

A nonprofit 501(3)c organization dedicated to presenting high-quality musical programs and entertainment to the community of Warren, Ohio. It is the oldest community arts organization in Trumbull County and one of the first in the state.

William Doud Packard

A prominent local industrialist who co-founded the Packard Motor Car Company and Packard Electric Company. Packard made provisions in his will to establish a trust that would ensure there was a place in the city for music to endure and flourish for future generations.

W.D. Packard Music Hall

A 2,100-seat performance venue located in Packard Park in Warren, Ohio. It has been the "home" of the Warren Civic Music Association since it first opened in 1955.

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What’s next

The Warren Civic Music Association is planning a special 80th anniversary celebration in 2026 to honor its long history and continued role in the community.

The takeaway

The Warren Civic Music Association's ability to adapt its programming while maintaining its commitment to bringing affordable, high-quality entertainment to its community over the course of 80 years is a remarkable achievement. Its longevity and continued relevance serve as an inspiration for other small, independent arts organizations striving to make a lasting impact.